Performance Testing Services
Effective quality assurance programs include testing a product for performance. As an AAMA accredited testing laboratory we are certified to perform a variety of water and air penetration testing on windows, storefronts, punched openings, curtain walls, and mock-up assemblies. Testing identifies systemic problems early and adds concrete, measurable data about product and subcontractor performance.
Clear performance testing approaches, criteria, and requirements hold the design and installation teams to an external, objective standard. However, in situations of unclear specifications or conditions we can recommend a best practice testing protocol, sampling strategy, and installation guidance.
AAMA TESTING PROTOCOL
Blue Quality Services is a full-service testing laboratory accredited by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). AAMA Accreditation is required to perform the most commonly specified field tests for architectural products. We are certified to perform AAMA 501.2, AAMA 502, AAMA 503, AAMA 511, and AAMA 910-93.
ASTM TESTING PROTOCOL
AAMA audits accredited laboratories, ensuring testing teams are professionally trained, testing equipment is calibrated, and records are maintained and kept confidential. Because our team is professionally trained in AAMA testing protocol, our ASTM water and air leakage testing is held to a higher standard than unaccredited firms. Blue Quality Services performs ASTM E 283, ASTM E 330, ASTM E 331, ASTM E 547, ASTM E 783, ASTM E 987, ASTM E 1105, ASTM E 2068, ASTM F 588, and ASTM F 842.
WHOLE BUILDING AIR LEAKAGE TESTING
The performance of a building’s air barrier system determines how well the interior conditioned spaces are separated from the exterior environment. Whole building air leakage testing is the only accepted method currently available to verify the performance of a building’s air barrier. We use specialized fans, computerized controls, and custom operational software to test buildings nationwide.
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS AIR LEAKAGE PROTOCOL
Blue Quality Services also provides whole building air leakage testing consistent with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers testing protocol. To pass a USACE air leakage test, a building must be below the allowable rate of air leakage required by project specifications. This test is industry standard ASTM E779-03 with accepted modifications by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY
Blue Quality Services typically performs infrared thermography scanning in conjunction with whole building air leakage testing, but also provides this service as a quality control measure for walls and roofs to document air and water infiltration and building envelope performance. Our Certified Infrared Thermographers (CIT) use the most current infrared equipment to provide visual documentation of compliance or problem conditions.
ROOF ANCHOR POINT TESTING & CERTIFICATION
We perform structural capacity testing of roof anchor tiebacks in accordance with ANCI/IWCA I-14.1-2001. This test gives window-cleaning contractors greater assurance that the roof anchors have been designed, installed, inspected and maintained according to the standard.
MIL THICKNESS TESTING
During our construction observations, our Field Services Team verify the application of waterproofing sealants, coatings, and membranes. Many times, our trained professionals are able to visually identify if sufficient product has been applied, however, when a more accurate measurement is required per project specifications, we use the manufacturer’s thickness gauge to get an exact reading. Mil thickness testing helps prevent costly systemic problems from occurring and reduces the likelihood of rework and callbacks after turnover.
MASONRY WALL MOISTURE INTRUSION TESTING
Over time, coatings and water repellents on masonry degrade, leading to significant erosion and discoloration due to water damage. Water repellent coatings on exterior building surfaces are generally clear, so it can be difficult to determine when those coatings should be replaced. Field testing with RILEM tubes is a practical and affordable way to confirm durability and water absorption into porous materials such as brick or limestone.
CONCRETE VAPOR EMISSIONS TESTING
As construction schedules tighten, rushing the concrete drying process can lead to slabs with insufficient drying time prior to the installation of floor covering materials and coatings. In order to determine the correct time to install flooring systems for optimal results, our technicians perform the Calcium Chloride Vapor Emission Test, or ASTM F1869. This test was developed to measure the amount of moisture vapor emitted from the surface of a concrete slab.